Shoes can be helpful to support variousfoot issues.

However, if they don’t fit well, they can also cause problems.

You don’t get to try your shoes on first when you buy them online.

Person in a shoe store shopping for shoes

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Instead, you rely on the labeled size and not how they fit.

This is why it’s a good idea to shop for shoes in person.

This article provides advice on how to choose the right shoes and ensure they fit you correctly.

verify to include these measurements:

Do not rely on a foot measurement from 10 years ago.

Ligaments, tissue that attaches bone to bone, tend to relax and stretch as you get older.

The other tissues in your foot may change, too.

This causes your feet to change shape and size.

Stand When Measuring

Stand up when measuring your feet.

How you stand can affect the size and shape of your feet.

When standing, your feet spread out more.

It is better to have someone else take the measurement.

Measure the Arch Length

An important part of the shoe fit is the arch length.

The arch length is measured from your heel to the ball of your foot.

The ball of your foot is where your big toe joint bends.

The bend in your big toe should match with where the shoe bends.

With both shoes on, rise up onto your toes.

Measure later in the day and while standing.

ensure your shoes are a good fit for your arch length.

Size Does Not Matter

Don’t worry about the shoe size number.

There is a big difference in shoe sizes between shoe companies.

This is because different companies use different forms to shape their shoes.

This means a size 8 New Balance will not fit the same as a size 8 Nike.

Fit Shoes to the Larger Foot

No two feet are the same.

One foot is usually slightly larger than the other.

Buy the shoe size that fits the larger foot.

Fitting shoes to the larger foot does have a limit.

If there is more than a 1.5-size difference between your feet, get two different-sized shoes.

Size varies between manufacturers.

Don’t worry about the size on the label.

Buy the shoes that fit your largest foot.

Trying on Shoes for Fit

Try shoes on at the shoe store before buying.

If you order them online, try them on first before deciding if you will keep them.

Here are a few tips to help you make your decision.

Wear Appropriate Socks or Hosiery

Wear the socks, nylons, etc.

that you would normally wear with the key in of shoes you are trying on.

If you wear athletic socks with sneakers, wear athletic socks when trying on sneakers.

If you wear hosiery with dress shoes, wear the same hosiery when you try them on.

The thickness of the sock will have a big impact on the fit of the shoe.

If you have small hands, this is about the size of the tip of your index finger.

If you have large hands, it’s about the size of the tip of your pinky finger.

For many people the big toe is the longest.

Some people have a longer second toe.

double-check you measure according to your longest toe.

This may cause skin irritation andblisters.

Always try on shoes while wearing your usual socks.

Select Shoes with Room in the Toe Box

Your toes need room to move.

Walk around the store in them.

The best way to try out new shoes is on a treadmill.

This will keep the shoes clean and give you a chance to really try them out.

Some shoe stores will let you do this.

If you’re not sure, ask.

see to it you know the store’s return policy.

You may not be able to return shoes that have too much wear on them.

Do not buy uncomfortable shoes in the hope they will “break in.”

If the shoes you bought online aren’t comfortable, return them.

Laced Shoes Are Easier to Fit

Shoes with laces are easier to adjust to your feet.

They are also easier to keep on the feet.

Shoes without laces won’t adjust when your feet swell.

They are also harder to keep on the feet.

This means your feet will have to work harder while wearing them.

The heel height should be no more than 1.5 inches.

Higher heels put a lot more pressure on the forefoot.

This can lead to foot pain down the road.

A good shoe fitting may take 45 to 60 minutes.

Shoes should be comfortable the day you buy them.

For the best fit, choose a shoe that laces and avoid higher heels.

Summary

Well-fitting shoes can help you avoid foot problems.

see to it you measure your feet often, since your foot size can change over time.

Measure your feet later in the day and while standing.

Look for shoes that fit your largest foot.

check that there is space in the toe and at the heel.

Shoes should be immediately comfortable.

Laced shoes will fit better.

Heels may cause foot problems.

When in doubt, visit a shoe store that offers professional fitting.

Frequently Asked Questions

No.

Shoes that are too large for your feet will be too loose to provide adequate support.

They may affect how you walk, causing foot problems orfalls.

Shoes that fit properly should be comfortable from the start.

Sometimes, though, the upper part of a shoe will be stiff.

To loosen it up, you try wearing them with thick socks.

If they have laces, you could also try tying them extra tight.

Shop at a reputable running store that has knowledgable salespeople.

Leave the shoes on your feet for at least 10 minutes.

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